If at first(base) you don't succeed

[Ben Reimler]

Much has been – and will continue to be – written about the Twins’ need to acquire more arms before the trade deadline; that’s absolutely true. Less explored, however, is whether the Twins might be in the market for a lineup addition. 

With the usual caveat that the trade deadline is months away, it’s never too early to speculate on moves that might bolster an organization looking to end a postseason drought. 

Between an imminent exit for Miguel Sano, an overmatched rookie who needs further development in Jose Miranda, and an out-of-position Luis Arraez, acquiring a slugging first baseman could be a sensible move. 

With that in mind, here are three targets the Twins could look to welcome (or reacquaint) to Minnesota: 

• Trey Mancini: Once again, Baltimore finds themselves in the basement of the American League East and staring up at a multi-year climb back to relevance. This home run derby alum is in the last year of his contract and his Statcast page paints a picture of a slugger continuing to frighten pitchers. Given that Mancini’s services would only be “rented” for half a season, it would also likely be a more economical option. 
• Josh Bell: Much like Mancini, Bell is headed for free agency at the conclusion of the 2022 campaign. Though the National’s first baseman has struggled to barrel balls with consistency this season (32% barrell%), his intrinsic power and max exit velocity offers an intriguing upside. 
• C.J. Cron: Cron was an important contributor to the thrilling 2019 Bomba Squad Twins, and has continued to slug in the Mile High City. With a .319/.364/.604 (.969 OPS) line, Cron’s 2022 numbers are well-above his career averages. Of course this could be attributed to the Coors Field effect, but Cron’s Statcast page suggests a deeper reason for optimism. In addition to adding a power bat in the Twins lineup for a postseason push, Cron is also under contract through the 2023 season. 

Do any of these power hitters intrigue you? What additions do you think should be in the Twins’ future? COMMENT below.

 

[Mark G]

I remember Cron well from that '19 team.  Not only did he have some pop, I remember him playing a very steady 1st base defensively.  Depending on the cost, he would be my first choice for a position player come trade time; unless, that is, if Kirilloff comes back strong and proves he can hit, wrist and all.  Then he may be the best option.  Otherwise, I like Cron.  

[Ben Reimler]

  On 5/21/2022 at 8:38 AM, Mark G said:

I remember Cron well from that '19 team.  Not only did he have some pop, I remember him playing a very steady 1st base defensively.  Depending on the cost, he would be my first choice for a position player come trade time; unless, that is, if Kirilloff comes back strong and proves he can hit, wrist and all.  Then he may be the best option.  Otherwise, I like Cron.  

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I would tend to agree with you. I think welcoming back C.J. Cron is the most exciting option, and also carries the most upside. Not to mention, I value the fact that he carries an additional year on his contract. 

[Mike Sixel]

I don't get why it isn't Arraez. Or Kiriloff. Maybe Larnach. There is no need to deal for a first baseman. 

[tony&rodney]

No. Roll with what we have: Miranda, Arraez, Sano, and anyone else  ....  maybe Urshela. If the Twins want to upgrade at a position they can look into a trade for Montas.